Cardiac Pacemaker Insertion Surgery in Turkey: Cost, Best Doctors and Hospitals

Pacemaker implantation is a surgical procedure that is used to treat patients with arrhythmias, where the heart beats irregularly, too slowly, or too quickly. The pacemaker is a tiny, battery-operated device that helps regulate the heart’s rhythm by making sure that it beats at the correct pace. This device is surgically implanted, usually beneath the skin near your collarbone. 

Also known as a cardiac pacing device, a pacemaker weighs between 20 and 50 grams and is roughly the size of a matchbox. It consists of a pulse generator (which includes a battery and a tiny computer circuit) and one or more insulated wires known as pacing leads. These leads deliver electrical impulses to the heart to maintain a stable heartbeat. 

Pacemaker implantation is considered a minor and straightforward surgical procedure, usually done in an operating room. The pulse generator is placed under the skin, or is sometimes attached externally using an adhesive patch. This treatment is commonly used for patients with slow or irregular heart rhythms.

While the idea of receiving a pacemaker seems daunting, it is often a life-saving procedure. In Turkey, some of the country's top cardiac surgery hospitals offer pacemaker implantation at highly affordable prices. These procedures are carried out by one of the world's top 10 cardiac surgeons, who are skilled and trained in providing successful results in cardiac treatments. Pacemaker implantation is one of the most frequently performed heart surgeries globally, with thousands of procedures conducted every year.

Moreover, pacemaker insertion surgery in Turkey boasts a success rate of 98%, making it a reliable destination for medical tourism, especially for cardiovascular treatments like pacemaker implantation. Unlike developed countries like the UK, USA, and Australia, which charge over $40,000 for pacemaker installation, pacemaker placement surgery in Turkey is 80% lower. Additionally, Turkey is one of the most preferred destinations for this procedure, where top hospitals like Medipol Mega University Hospital, American Hospital (Istanbul), and Medicana provide cost-effective care without compromising quality. This page will assist you with everything related to pacemaker insertion surgery in Turkey.

What are the Indications for Cardiac Pacemaker Insertion Surgery in Turkey? 

A pacemaker is an electrical device that helps regulate the heartbeat by delivering electrical impulses to the heart muscle. It can speed up, slow down, or maintain a steady rhythm, mimicking the heart’s natural electrical signals. When the heart's intrinsic electrical system is damaged or disrupted due to factors such as heart muscle injury, certain medications, or genetic conditions, pacemaker placement surgery in Turkey becomes a necessary intervention.

A pacemaker installation surgery in Turkey is recommended for patients suffering from chronic slow or irregular heart rhythms, as well as for those with certain types of heart failure. The decision to implant a pacemaker is usually made when the heart rate drops too low to support normal bodily functions or when there are life-threatening pauses between two heartbeats.

Installing a pacemaker can be an effective solution to eliminate these dangerous symptoms. Some of the common medical reasons that indicate you need a pacemaker insertion surgery in Turkey are: 

• Bradycardia (Abnormally Slow Heart Rate)
• Heart block (Conduction Problems)
• Unexplained fainting (Syncope)
• Certain types of heart failure
• To support other treatments

What are the Different Types of Pacemakers?

The type of pacemaker recommended depends on the specific heart rhythm disorder a patient has. In Turkey, top cardiac hospitals offer a wide range of pacemakers that are catered to specific medical needs. These devices are selected by cardiologists based on factors such as the patient's heart rate, rhythm abnormalities, and heart function:

■ Leadless Pacemaker:

This is a compact and capsule-sized device implanted directly into the heart via a minimally invasive, catheter-based procedure. It does not require any wires, which makes it a popular option for patients who are at risk of lead-related complications. Leadless pacemakers are used in cases where only single-chamber pacing is needed.

■ Single-Chamber Pacemaker:

This type of pacemaker has one lead, which is placed in the right ventricle of the heart. It is used for patients with bradycardia or atrial fibrillation who require support for only one heart chamber.

■ Dual-Chamber Pacemaker:

A dual-chamber pacemaker has two leads, one placed in the right atrium and the other in the right ventricle. This type helps the device coordinate activity between the upper and lower chambers, and the heart beat more naturally and efficiently.

■ Biventricular Pacemaker:

This advanced pacemaker uses three leads, one in the right atrium, one in the right ventricle, and one in the left ventricle. It is used to treat heart failure by synchronising the contractions of both ventricles. For patients with diminished heart function, CRT can greatly alleviate symptoms and enhance quality of life.

What is the Step-by-step Procedure for Cardiac Pacemaker Installation Surgery in Turkey?

If you're planning to undergo pacemaker implantation surgery in Turkey, it’s important to choose a reputable &  internationally accredited hospital. Major cities like Istanbul, Antalya, and Izmir offer world-class heart surgery services at a fraction of the cost compared to Western countries, without compromising on quality. Here are the steps taken while performing pacemaker insertion surgery in Turkey: 

■ Pre-Procedure Preparation:

• You will first have to undergo comprehensive assessment tests like ECG, echocardiogram, and possibly Holter monitoring to evaluate your heart’s rhythms and function.
• Your surgeon will discuss the procedure, benefits, risks, and outcomes. 
• You have to follow the pre-operative fasting as suggested and take the medications as advised by the doctor. 

■ During the Procedure:

• The surgery will be performed under local anaesthesia with sedation or general anaesthesia to ensure the process is pain-free and comfortable. 
• The surgeon will make a small incision near your collarbone. 
• Wires or leads will be guided into the heart through a vein, guided by X-ray imaging. 
• The lead will then be connected to the pacemaker device under the skin. 
• The pacemaker settings are programmed externally, and the incision is closed. 
• The procedure is minimal and typically requires an hour or two to complete. 

■ Post-Procedure Care:

• You will be monitored in the hospital setting for at least a day or two after the surgery. 
• You will be kept in the ICU during the initial stages to ensure that the pacemaker is functioning correctly and to observe for any complications.
• Before you are released, you will receive instructions on wound care, activity restrictions, and follow-up appointment schedules that you must attend to accelerate your recovery process.

How is Recovery from Cardiac Pacemaker Insertion in Turkey?

During the recovery period after cardiac pacemaker insertion surgery in Turkey, you must follow the instructions and restrictions provided by your doctor for optimal benefits. If you're installing a pacemaker after bypass surgery, make sure to take extra precautions during recovery. Take the prescribed drugs at the right time and in the correct dosage:

■ Post-Procedure Recovery:

• You should avoid strenuous activities and heavy lifting for a few weeks after the procedure.
• Follow-up appointments will be scheduled to monitor the pacemaker’s function and your progress after the treatment. Necessary adjustments in the medication regimen will be made according to your response to the treatment. 

■ Long-Term Care:

• Regular check-ups are essential to ensure the pacemaker is working correctly. Batteries are usually replaced every 5-15 years, depending on the type of device.
• You must carry a pacemaker identification card and inform your healthcare providers about the device before undergoing any medical procedures.

Why Opt for Cardiac Pacemaker Insertion Surgery in Turkey? 

Turkey has gained international recognition for its advanced medical facilities, skilled healthcare professionals, and cost-effective treatments, especially cardiac pacemaker insertion surgery. A cardiac treatment costs around $45,000 in developed countries like the UK, USA, Singapore, and Australia. Turkey offers the same quality treatment at a cost ranging from $8,000 to $25,000. Here are some of the reasons why Turkey is an excellent choice for pacemaker installation surgery:

• Highly qualified cardiologists and cardiac surgeons: Turkey boasts the world's top 10 cardiac surgeons skilled in complex cardiovascular procedures, including pacemaker implantation. They have received education, are trained, and have worked in the top medical institutions worldwide.
• State-of-the-art medical facilities: Turkey has some top heart surgery hospitals equipped with the latest medical technology and infrastructure. Turkish hospitals in Antalya, Izmir, and Istanbul adhere to international standards, ensuring high-quality care and patient safety.
• Affordable treatment costs: Pacemaker insertion surgery in Turkey is very affordable and costs between $8,000 and $25,000, which includes the procedure, hospital stay, and follow-up care. This is far more affordable than in countries like the USA or the UK, where the procedure may cost over $40,000.
• Short waiting times: Patients in many Western countries face long waiting periods before elective surgeries. In Turkey, waiting times for essential cardiac procedures are minimal, allowing patients to undergo timely surgical intervention right after the consultations. 

How to Avail Pacemaker Insertion Surgery in Turkey with CureTurkey?

With the right guidance, planning your pacemaker surgery in Turkey can be easier than you think. While travelling abroad for heart surgery might sound overwhelming, working with a trusted medical tourism partner like CureTurkey will help make sure that your entire experience is safe, smooth, and completely personalised to your needs.

At CureTurkey, we connect you with board-certified cardiologists and top heart surgeons at internationally accredited hospitals across Turkey. Your care will meet the highest global medical standards. Our all-inclusive pacemaker surgery packages cover everything from pre-surgery consultations and diagnostic tests to hospital admission, accommodation, airport transfers, and post-operative care so that you can focus on your recovery, not the logistics.

Whether you're travelling solo or accompanied by a loved one, our team will take care of everything from the moment you land in Turkey to your final follow-up appointment. You’ll also benefit from multilingual support, a personal care coordinator, and options for medical travel insurance, which will give you full peace of mind.

Want to get started? You can contact us directly, submit a query by clicking on the form below, and one of our patient coordinators will be in touch to walk you through the next steps.